If you are an immediate relative of a US citizen, you can become a lawful permanent resident (get a Green Card) based on your family relationship. You must file an I-130 form (Petition for Alien Relative) along with two passport-time pictures of the spouse and filled-out Form I-130A for the spouse.The entire marriage green card timeline can take 10–38 months. Several factors influence wait times, including processing delays. If you are a U.S. permanent resident, you can file an I-130 petition for a spouse, a child under the age of 21, or an unmarried adult son or daughter. The family-based immigration attorney at Nagell Law will help you consider your options, carefully prepare the necessary forms and documents. Find out how to get, renew, or replace a Green Card and become a permanent resident. Apply for an immigrant visa. You must have been a legal permanent resident (LPR or green card holder) for 5 years, or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen. If you are a conditional resident or permanent resident, you can file an application to replace or renew your resident card.